Malta has always been renowned for its beautiful coastal landscapes, favourable tax conditions and iGaming influence, but every year in September something perhaps a little less well known takes place on the island – the Malta International Air Show fly’s into town. Malta International Airport welcomes all manner of aircraft to its runways and onlookers get a taste of some exciting aviation exhibitions.
Malta International Air Show: Flying as High as Ever after 20 years
The air show is regarded as one of the largest outdoor events in the country and has gained notoriety as perhaps the most family friendly day out on the Maltese calendar.
History
The Malta International Air Show came about after persistence from the Malta Aviation Society, who were eventually allowed to host the event. That was 19 years ago, when Marsamxetto Harbour played host to hordes of spectators who were treated to everything from the virgin flight of the Patrouille de France to the German ‘Luftwaffe’ F-4 Phantom, as they soared on the Maltese thermals.
The Plane Facts
Aircraft from all over the world have entertained the masses over the years at the show and some of the more fascinating ones that have featured in past Malta Air Shows include Italian F-104s, B52 and B1B, Czech L-39, and Spitfire and Hurricane as well as others from Israel, Italy, the US navy and the Red Arrows amongst most national display teams from all across Europe.
The Interesting Facts
- Over 200 men and women behind the scenes of the 2 day event volunteer their time to ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Obviously the health and safety of the air show is of utmost importance. To ensure this, 10kms of stake and rope is erected and over 2 kilometres of barriers and fences need to be put up.
- The Tines of Malta have explicitly said that that the International Air Show is the largest outdoor occasion in Malta, year on year.
As the number one dedicated airline in the country, Air Malta also occupies a spot on the line-up at this year’s show. They will be flying their Airbus A320 as they no doubt hope to attract future passengers as well as entertain the crowd.
This is the show’s 20th edition and there are plenty of great sights in store as the event will no doubt see growth in spectacle and support since 2011 and the other 18 years that preceded it. The array of aircraft at the Malta International Air Show will be flying high on the 29th and 30th of September.
Dave Peterson has flown all over the world for business and pleasure. He’s never had a fear of flying and finds it quite the thrill. Whether it’s short trip Malta holidays or the far reaches of the world, he loves the peace and quite of being miles above the earth.